Government announcement on Campus Sexual Violence will improve campus safety
Edmonton, AB - Today the Government of Alberta announced new initiatives and funding to address dating, domestic, and sexual violence on Alberta campuses. The Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) is pleased to see this announcement as it has been calling for action since CAUS released its campus sexual violence research paper in 2019. Among the recommendations in the paper were calls to improve sexual assault policies to better protect survivors and establishing a standardized province wide survey to better assess the situation.
“Addressing dating, domestic, and sexual violence in our community is everyone’s responsibility. This announcement will greatly advance the work that is necessary to change campus communities by creating a more accepting and welcoming environment for all.”
Rachel Timmermans, Chair of CAUS
The creation of a standardised cross-sectoral survey will enable the collection of long-term consistent data that institutions and policymakers will be able to use to target programing, training, and support to where it is most needed. Additionally, implementing best practice through sexual assault policies can greatly improve reporting and disclosure as well as better define processes and supports available.
"Sometimes the biggest barrier for students is disclosure. There can be fear of reprisals, self-incrimination, or even unjustified embarrassment or shame. Improving sexual assaults policies to be survivor-centric will greatly benefit students."
Matthew Yanish, Vice Chair of CAUS
CAUS would like to thank Ministers Nicolaides and Issik and the Government of Alberta for acting to improve the health and safety of Alberta students.
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The Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) represents the interests of over 140,000 undergraduate students at Athabasca University, MacEwan University, Mount Royal University, the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge.
Media contact:
Jon Mastel, Executive Director
780-297-4531